We’ve seen prototypes of the Audi RS Q8 running around, but apparently, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to high-performance SUVs from the automaker. Speaking with Autocar, Audi Sport managing director Oliver Hoffmann said there will be RS variants of almost every Audi SUV.
“We have to stretch our portfolio and the SUV segment is the segment with the most growth,” Hoffmann said. “There is high demand from our customers for high-performance SUVs,” adding that the RS Q8 launches this year.
This will be the first in a wave of RS-badged SUVs from Audi. Although we don’t know what will be under the sheetmetal, it’s possible the RS Q8 will inherit a version of the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 found in the Lamborghini Urus, where it makes 641 hp.
While saying “nothing is official at this stage,” the report from Autocar claims Audi Sport is said to be developing RS versions of the following vehicles: Q3, Q5, Q7, and Q8. We’re certainly not surprised about RS Q3, considering we’ve seen prototypes hard at work on the track for what could be a 400-hp small SUV. Autocar says to expect RS-badged SUVs within the next 12 months.
Electrification will come into play with future RS utility vehicles. “If you have the SUV segment with the higher weight, it’s easier to implement a hybrid drivetrain. It’s easier because of the packaging and the higher weight,” Hoffmann reportedly said, adding “for sure, we will increase electric for our RS models in the future.”
Right now, Audi Sport has an extensive array of non-SUV models, including the RS 3, RS 4, RS 5, R8, and TT RS. On that note, we’re still sad the TT is on its way out.
Source: Autocar
The post Audi RS Q8 Launches This Year, More RS SUVs to Come appeared first on MotorTrend.
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July 31, 2019 at 07:13AM
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